System and Method for Debt Presentment and Resolution

ABSTRACT

A system and method for debt presentment and resolution through an Intranet or Internet content provider is disclosed. Said system and method include a plurality of “transaction communities” which are electronic forums allowing interaction between a plurality of debtors and creditors through means of electronic mail (e-mail) or other electronic communication means. The Internet/Intranet based software application allows said debtors to access and input information related to a particular debt with any Internet browser software. Said debtors are provided with the URL (Universal Resource Locator) for said content provider along with a unique identification code from the collection agency(s) through mail correspondence or other communication means. Upon said user entering said URL and entering said identification code, said user may then proceed to choose from a variety of settlement options listed on the HTML (HyperText Markup Language) page.

The present invention relates broadly to a system and method whereby aperson owing a debt or bill is invited to resolve this indebtedness viathe Internet. More specifically, the user is invited (by traditionalmedia such as phone or mail) to visit a “transaction community” whereinthe debt may be resolved through an interactive exchange of information.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an Internet-based financial servicethat, unlike current systems, may be accessed by anyone with a personalcomputer having an Internet connection. This disclosed system exceedscurrent standards for online banking (Open Financial Exchange) and isset to meet or exceed anticipated revisions. In a typical debtresolution application of the disclosed system, the credit or collectioncompany customer (the debtor) can participate in web-based financialtransactions without previously establishing a personal online bankingsystem. Initially, the credit or collection organization invites thedebtor to utilize applicant's web-based customer service software byoffering Internet payment as an option to traditional payment methodssuch as mail or telephonic credit card transactions. For example, themailed copy of a “past due” notice invites the debtor to visit thecreditor's web-based “transaction community”—an interactive alternativelocation for debt resolution.

The WorldWide Web, or Internet, is actually a complex “web” of smallerregional networks. It is comparable in many ways to our roadways. Anetwork of interstate superhighways connect large cities. These highwaysflow into smaller freeways and parkways linking smaller towns to the bigcities. The parkways ultimately connect to slower, narrower residentialstreets. See EFF's Extended Guide to the Internet, incorporated hereinby reference.

In the world of computers, the “superhighway” is the high-speedInternet. Connected to the Internet are computers that use a particularsystem of transferring data at high speeds. In the United States, themajor Internet “backbone” theoretically can move data at rates of 45million bits per second. By way of comparison, the average home modemhas a top speed of roughly 14,400 to 56,000 bits per second. Thisinter-Internetworking “protocol” allows a network user to connect andlink up with computers around the world.

Smaller networks serving particular geographic regions are connected tothe backbone computers, which generally move data at speeds around 1.5million bits per second. These networks are hooked to even smallernetworks and individual computers. Unlike commercial networks, a centralcomputer does not run the Internet. This is both its greatest strengthand its greatest weakness. This approach means it is virtuallyimpossible for the entire Internet to crash at once—even if one computershuts down, the rest of the network stays up. This design also reducesthe costs associated with an individual or organization accessing theInternet through a network. However, thousands of connected computerscan also make it difficult to navigate the Internet and find what youwant—especially as different computers may have different commands for“plumbing” or accessing their resources. Only recently have Internetusers begun to develop the navigational tools and “maps” that allowneophytes and relatively inexperienced users get around and navigate theInternet without getting lost.

The number of users, computers, and networks making up this Internet isnot known with any degree of certainty. Some estimates place as many as5,000 networks, connecting nearly 2 million computers and more than 15million people around the world as the Internet. Whatever the actualnumbers, they are increasing rapidly.

The Internet is more than just a technological marvel. It is arevolutionary means of communication. The rate at which information anddocuments are exchanged is obviously quite a bit faster than mail, asmessages race around the globe in seconds, provided you have the rightconnection. Network providers are therefore continually working on waysto facilitate communication between users of one network with those ofanother. At present, work is underway on a universal “white pages” inwhich you could look up somebody's electronic-mail address. This“connectivity” will become even more important in coming years as usersbegin to demand “seamless” network access, much as a telephone user candial almost anywhere in the world without thinking about the number ofphone companies actually involved with the call. As it becomes easier touse, more and more people will undoubtedly join this worldwide communityknown as the Internet.

While the present invention will have broad application to the fullrange of online financial transactions, particular applicability is seenin the area of credit and collection practices. The credit andcollection arenas are segmented into distinct market niches. The firstniche comprises, for instance, collection organizations. The collectionindustry is further defined by type of debts collected (consumer vs.commercial) and then by the placement of various debts by and within thevarious industries.

Credit transactions (e.g., loans, credit cards, etc.) provide anadditional immediate niche for the invention as disclosed. The“transaction community” of the present invention allows forcustomization to address the various transaction niches required withinthe various credit and collection communities. In other words, theinvention may be adapted to handle almost any credit or collectiontransaction.

The debt collection industry is consolidating. The May 1996 issue ofCollection & Credit Risk Magazines Annual Report notes that: “[a]lreadythe number of collection agencies has fallen by some 20% in the past twodecades.” Additionally, mergers-and-acquisitions specialist M. Kaulkinand Associates, of Bethesda, Md., reports that industry insiders expectanother 15% to 20% decrease and further consolidation: “[t]he signs ofan ongoing consolidation in the collections industry are unmistakable.In fact, as measured by placements, the 10 largest agencies in thecountry have increased their market share from about 15% in 1992 to42.1% last year.”

Over the years, debt collection has evolved as a function of availabletechnology and its utilization. There was a time when a collection agentwould personally visit the debtor for debt resolution. Mail allowed thecreditor and debtor to communicate through a series of “dunning” lettersto prompt debt resolution. With the advent of the telephone, thecreditor and debtor were able to facilitate debt resolution. Of course,while far less costly than personal visits, mail and phone collectionsare expensive operations, lowering the profitability of the debtcollection process.

Computers have long been used in debt collections, initially withrespect to the maintenance of debtor records through databaseconsolidation and utilization. More recently, advances include computertelephony and predictive dialers, which have increased efficiency andlowered time, energy, and cost expended in debt collection via thetelephone. The present invention is a leap forward in the use oftechnology in the debt collection industry. In applicant's system, thecreditor invites and encourages the debtor to communicate and resolvedebts on the personal computer over the Internet. It should be notedthat all previous technological advances in this field have been used toincrease creditor yield while reducing expenses. Times have changed.Increased competition for consumer dollars has changed thecreditor/debtor relationship into a customer service relationship.Creditors now compete to retain and attract customers by offeringcustomer service. The present invention accelerates this trend byallowing credit or collection organizations to offer competitivecustomer service while also increasing yield and decreasing expenses byproviding a method that gives customers the ability to resolve debtthrough a web-based “transaction community”.

Not surprisingly, there are a number of prior references that teachvarious methods of bill payment and management.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,220,501, issued to Lawlor, et al.,discloses a system and method for the remote distribution of financialservices (e.g., home banking and bill-paying) which includes providing aportable computer terminal to a user. The terminal may include amulti-line display, keys “pointer to” lines on the display, andadditional function keys. The terminal establishes contact between acentral computer that is operated by a service provider, preferably overan analog telephone line, and a packeted data network software bundle.Information is exchanged between the central computer and a terminalthat solicits particular information from the user relating to requestedfinancial services. For example, to pay a bill the payee approves theamount and provides his bank account PIN (personal identificationnumber). The central computer would then transmit a response messageover a conventional electronic Automatic Teller Machine (“ATM”) networkfor debiting the user's bank account in real time, and thenelectronically remitting payment to the specified payees in thespecified amounts. Additionally, payment(s) and/or transfer(s) may befurther scheduled in advance or on a periodic basis. Because the centralor main computer interacts with the user's bank as a standard point ofsale (“POS”) or ATM network node, no significant software changes arerequired at the bank's computers. The terminal interface tries to beuser-friendly in incorporating some of the features of standard ATMs.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,383,113, issued to Kight, et al., discloses acomputerized payment system by which a consumer may instruct a serviceprovider via telephone, computer, or other telecommunications means topay various bills without the consumer having to write individual checksfor each bill. The system essentially operates without restriction as towhere the consumer banks and what bills are to be paid. Essentially, theservice provider collects consumer information, financial institutioninformation and merchant information and arranges payment according tothe consumer's instructions.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,465,206, issued to Hilt, et al., discloses a bill paysystem wherein participating consumers may pay bills to participatingcreditors through a payment network. The participating consumers receivebills from participating creditors (paper bills, e-mail, implied billsfrom automatic debts) which indicate an amount and biller identificationnumber. To authorize a remittance, a consumer transmits to aparticipating bank a payment notice that indicates a payment date, anamount, the debtor's account, the source from which the funds are to beremitted and the biller's identification number. A bank then submits apayment “message” to the subscribed payment network and forwards thepayment message to the biller's bank. For settlement, the debtor's bankdebits the consumer's account and likewise, the creditor's bank receivesa Internet position from the payment network and credits the creditor'sbank account. If the debtors's bank agrees to send a non-reversiblepayment message, then the debtor's bank does not submit the transactionuntil funds are good unless the consumer's bank is willing to take therisk of loss as would be in the case in a guaranteed payment network. Inspecific embodiments, the consumer initiates the bill pay ordersmanually, via paper at an ATM, via PC, or via telephone keypad.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,483,445, issued to Pickering, discloses an automatedsystem and method for consolidating a plurality of individual companycharges for a customer with different periodic company billing andpayment due dates. Under the system, companies and businesses such asutility companies would report periodic billing information to a centralprocessing facility. This transfer is completed by electronic ormagnetic data transfer. The processing office undergoes minimalprocessing and “holds” the billing information data until all of thebilling information is received. Then, the central facility generates asingle customer statement which identifies individual company chargesand the statement due date. The statement is then sent to the customerwith payment for the charges by the due date. After receiving paymentfrom the customer, the system processes the payment and remits paymentto the companies.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,504,677, issued to Pollin, discloses a system and methodof collecting payments using an automated system to generate a draft,payable to the creditor and drawn on the payor's checking account,pursuant to payor's authorization. The draft is executed by the debtcollector as authorized signatory for the payor, and deposited into thepayee's account. The automated system has a simple input screen thatreceives the necessary information for generation of the draft, whichmay be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizingpayor. The system verifies the account information, comparing the inputinformation to records in a database associated with the system.Optionally, the system may also generate an “inquiry” to the bank todetermine the funds availability. When verification is complete, thesystem generates a paper draft payable to the payor, which may use anMICR ink so that the draft can be processed in the banking system likean ordinary check. The signature block would then be made for thecollection agent “as authorized signatory for” the payor.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,621,640, issued to Burke, discloses an automaticdonation system for a sales establishment including an entry arrangementfor entering the price of a product into a cash register, the amount ofcash being paid and a calculator for determining excess cash payment(s).A card reader keypad receives a card(s) number for accessing data andthen prints out the amounts entered.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,623,662, issued to McIntosh, discloses a method andsystem for extracting revenue information from a point-of-sale (POS)terminal for purposes of revenue sharing that includes the steps ofperiodically selecting and extracting predetermined portions of datafrom a proprietary database. This system allows for extrapolation ofselect data relating to revenue traffic in a rental system. Revenuestored in a proprietary database by a proprietary POS operating programis periodically selected, extracted and stored in a periodic database.The proprietary POS operating program can be used to create a historyreport database from the revenue transaction data and the portions ofthe revenue transaction data can be selected and extracted from thehistory report database.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,644,727, issued to Atkins, discloses a communication andcomputer based system for effecting exchange, investment and borrowing,involving the use of digital communication and computation terminalsdistributed to users and service providers. Through the system describedand its combined computer and communication terminals, client/customersmay purchase goods and services, save, invest, track bonuses and rebatesand effect enhanced personal financial analysis, planning, managementand record keeping with less effort and increased convenience. Through aprioritization function, the client specifies her financial objectives,her risk preference, and budgetary constraints. The prioritizationfunction automatically suggests to the individual a portfolio of assetand liability accounts that may be credited and/or debited to providethe required funds for consumption and to form investments and borrowingto best realize the financial objectives. If desired, the systemautomatically manages a client's budgetary and financial affairs througha system of expert sweeps based on a client's preferences. The client'saccounts are monitored via a borrowing power baseline, and consideredimbalanced if the client's borrowing power is less than the minimumborrowing power. If the account is imbalanced, the client may thenreallocate the assets and liabilities within the client account and/ormodify a set of constraints on the client account. If the client accountis still not balanced after modification of the account, the system willdeny authorization for certain requested transactions, and may initiatethe liquidation of certain asset accounts and reduce the balances of oneor more liability accounts.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,649,117, issued to Landry, discloses a system and methodfor paying bills without requiring interaction with the payors. Thesystem includes a payor control interface, a communications interface, abill generator, and a TCF message generator. The bill generatorgenerates bill records from the payor and payee information and frombill data messages received from payees. The generated records are usedby the TCF message generator to generate the EFT messages fortransferring funds electronically between payors and payees. Payors mayalter the payment amount and date for a bill as well as reverse paymentof a bill already paid. Payees are also able to alter recurring billrecords or may present bill data so that bill records reflectingvariable obligation amounts may be generated.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,652,786, issued to Rogers, discloses a method andapparatus for processing payment transactions using debit card numberswithout the requirement of a personal identification number (PIN). Atelepay system of the present invention provides an interface between astandard touch-tone telephone and at least one debit card network suchthat real-time bill payment transactions may be effected using a keypadof the telephone. The telepay system includes an interactive voiceresponse unit for prompting a payor to enter an access code, accountnumber, debit card number and payment amount and for informing the userof the status of the transaction. Real-time processing of transactionsis provided through use of debit card networks, rather than theAutomated Clearing House. The telepay system is also capable ofperforming settlement functions and processing inquiries by payees ofthe system regarding previously processed transactions.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,008, issued to Futch, et al., discloses a system andmethod whereby a multiplicity of users may perform a variety oftransactions, such as a product/service request, a bill payment requestand long distance telephone service, through a system operator. Thesystem includes a plurality of telephone instruments respectively havinga telephone identifier and a wallet card swipe reader or the like forinputting a user identifier. A plurality of user actuators, such asindividual buttons, are located on the telephone instrument to initiatea request for a particular transaction. A system processor incommunication with the telephone instrument determines which type oftransaction is being requested and determines whether the request isvalid. Preferably, the validity check is completely performed at acomputer having a validity table in its memory corresponding to theparticular telephone instrument. The computer stores all transactionrequests accrued over a period of time in its memory and forwards themto a central computer at a predetermined regular time. The centralcomputer then correlates the transaction request with completeinformation in its database to carry out the transaction as requested.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,089, issued to Bucci, discloses that analysis hasrevealed that there is an undue proliferation of first-class mail beingsent each month in the nature of bills, statements and similar suchdocuments. Analysis has also revealed that this produces an unnecessaryexpense for postage and processing, besides the costs involved inpurchasing the paper and envelopes to begin with. The method of theinvention avoids this through the single mailing of one or moretwo-sided documents on which is presented all the bills, statements,etc., intended for a given recipient during a specified period of time,for all subscribers to the ser-ice. In accordance with the describedembodiment of the invention, the method forms a computer database ofaddressee information; merges with that database all such recordinformation provided by subscribers; prints out one or more sheets,preferably on both sides, of all information intended for designatedrecipients during the time period in question; and allows for a singlemailing of such sheets in a single envelope.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,684,965, issued to Pickering, discloses an automatedmethod and system for consolidating a plurality of individual companycharges for a customer with different periodic company billing andpayment due dates. Under the system, companies and businesses such asutility companies report their periodic billing information to a centralprocessing office or facility. The processing office holds the billinginformation data until all of the billing information for the customerduring a pre-selected time period is received. Then, the centralprocessing facility generates a single customer statement whichidentifies all individual company charges as well as a statement duedate. The statement is sent to the customer and payment for the chargesdue. After receiving payment from the customer, the centralized billingcenter processes the payment and then remits payment to all of thecompanies.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,696,906, issued to Peters, et al., discloses anintegrated computerized system and method of telecommunication useraccount management. The invention creates, maintains, processes andanalyzes data regarding individual users for telecommunication services.Billing for individual users is generated. The user data is analyzed andreports for all or part of the user data are prepared and generated.Ancillary functions are enabled, including word processing, editing,e-mail, and other functions. The invention is applicable to subscribertelecommunication services, and pay-for-use services, and the user maybe a subscriber or a non-subscriber. The invention is applicable tomulti- or single-channel telecommunication services. Suchtelecommunication services may include cable television, telephone,video, audio, on-line databases, television, radio, music video, videojuke box, pay-for-view, video-on-demand, interactive TV, home-shopping,video conferences, telephone conferences, interfacing to imagingsystems, and automatic telephone call charge-backs (“900” numbers). Thecurrent preferred embodiment of the invention is for cable televisionservices subscriber account management.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,699,528, issued to Hogan, discloses a bill deliverypayment system in which users are able to access a server computer on acommunications network to obtain bill information and pay bills. Forexample, such a communications network may be the Internet. Using apersonal computer, a user can access a Web site provided by the servercomputer to view the bill information and instruct the server computeras to the details of the bill payment. In a second embodiment, withoutvisiting the web site, users are provided with electronic billscontaining bill information in the form of electronic mail (e-mail) attheir e-mail addresses. After opening an electronic bill, a user canmake the bill payment by replying to the electronic bill.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,710,887, issued to Chelliah, et al., discloses a systemfor facilitating commercial transactions, between a plurality ofcustomers and at least one supplier of items over a computer drivennetwork capable of providing communications between the supplier and atleast one customer site associated with each customer. Each siteincludes an associated display and an input device through which thecustomer can input information into the system. At least one supplier ispresented on the display for selection by the customer using the inputdevice. Similarly items from a supplier can be displayed for thecustomer to observe. In addition, a customer information database storesinformation relating to the customer. Associated with each customer is acustomer monitoring object for each customer. The customer monitoringobject is created by referencing information, relating to that customer,which had been stored in the customer information database and when thecustomer selects a supplier. The customer monitoring object isconfigured to operate by responding to customer inquiries regarding apresented item by retrieving information relating to the item andpresenting the information to the customer; receiving a customer'sselection of a presented item; receiving customer communications,indicating a desire to receive the item; and passing a communication toinitiate the delivery of the item to the customer.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,298, issued to Rogers, discloses processing paymenttransactions using debit card numbers without the requirement of apersonal identification number (PIN). A telepay system provides aninterface between a standard touch-tone telephone and at least one debitcard network such that real-time bill payment transactions may beeffected using a keypad of the telephone. The telepay system includes aninteractive voice response unit for prompting a payor to enter an accesscode, account number, debit card number and payment amount and forinforming the user of the status of the transaction. Real-timeprocessing of transactions is provided through use of debit cardnetworks, rather than the Automated Clearing House. The telepay systemis also capable of performing settlement functions and processinginquiries by payees of the system regarding previously processedtransactions.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,399, issued to Bezos, discloses a system forsecurely indicating to a customer one or more credit card numbers that amerchant has on file for the customer when communicating with thecustomer over a non-secure network. The merchant sends a message to thecustomer that contains only a portion of each of the credit card numbersthat are on file with the merchant. Then a computer retrieves the creditcard numbers by reference on file for the customer in a database,constructs the message, and transmits the message to a customer location(10) over the Internet network (30) or other non-secure network. Thecustomer can then confirm in a return message that a specific one of thecredit card numbers on file with the merchant should be used in charginga transaction. Since only a portion of the credit card number(s) areincluded in any message transmitted, a third party cannot discover thecustomer's complete credit card number(s).

U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,512, issued to Dedrick, discloses a method forproviding electronic advertisements to end users in a consumer best-fitpricing manner including an index database, a user profile database, anda consumer scale matching process. The index database provides storagespace for the titles of electronic advertisements. The user profiledatabase provides storage for a set of characteristics that correspondto individual end users of the apparatus. The consumer scale matchingprocess is coupled to the content database and the user profile databaseand compares the characteristics of the individual end users with aconsumer scale associated with the electronic advertisement. Theapparatus then charges a fee to the advertiser, based on the comparisonby the matching process. In one embodiment, a consumer scale isgenerated for each of multiple electronic advertisements. Theseadvertisements are then transferred to multiple yellow page servers, andthe titles associated with the advertisements are subsequentlytransferred to multiple metering servers. At the metering servers, adetermination is made as to where the characteristics of the end usersserved by each of the metering servers fall on the consumer scale. Thehigher the characteristics of the end users served by a particularmetering server fall, the higher the fee charged to the advertiser.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,584, issued to Peters, et al., discloses a systemfor processing a batch which is distributed into a plurality ofindependent segments. A preferred embodiment of this invention calls forimplementation on a symmetrical multiprocessing platform, however, theinvention is also applicable to massively parallel architectures as wellas uniprocessor environments. Each segment comprises a plurality ofdiscrete events, each discrete event comprising a plurality ofsub-events to be processed. The system operates to process each discreteevent within each segment sequentially and each sub-event within eachdiscrete event sequentially. The plurality of segments may be processedon an uniprocessor, an SMP system or an MPP system. By balancing thenumber of discrete events in each segment using a “coarse grain”approach, a flexible but efficient use of processor availability isobtained.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,727,249, issued to Pollin, discloses a system and methodof collecting payments comprising an automated system to generate adraft, payable to the creditor and drawn on the payor's checkingaccount, pursuant to the payor's authorization. The draft is thenexecuted by the debt collector as authorized signatory for the payor,and deposited into the payee's account to complete payment. Theautomated system has a simple input screen that receives the necessaryinformation for generation of the draft, which may be read to the systemoperator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The systemverifies the bank and account information by comparing the inputinformation to records in a database associated with the system.Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank todetermine the availability of funds in the payor's account. Whenverification is complete, the system generates a paper bank draftpayable to the payor, using MICR ink so that the draft can be processedin the banking system like an ordinary check. The signature block of thedraft is made for the collection agent “as authorized signatory for” thepayor.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,729,594, issued to Klingman, discloses a remotecommunication system for facilitating secure electronic purchases ofgoods on-line, wherein a suitable local user input device in associationwith a data transmission system couples the user input into a packetnetwork system for communication to a remote receiver/decoder apparatusto try a potentially desired product. Upon selection of the desiredproduct by the user, a telecom network link is used to communicate atelephone number associated with the desired product from the user tothe remote receiver to allow the user to buy the desired product. Thetelecom network used to link the user input device to the remoteapparatus may also include a 900 number billing system for assessing andcollecting fees for use of the system.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,734,828, issued to Pendse, et al., discloses anon-line/information service system which is constituted with a callermanagement server and a number of on-line/information servers. Thecaller management server is equipped with multiple ports andcomplementary hardware/software, including a call managementapplication, for managing multiple concurrent calls, which includesoptionally validating the calls depending on whether services areprovided on a callee or caller basis, assigning and connecting the callsto corresponding on-line/information service delivery environments onthe on-line/information servers. The on-line/information servers areequipped with adequate hardware/software, including anon-line/information service manager application and a number ofon-line/information service applications, to support multipleon-line/information service delivery environments. Eachon-line/information service delivery environment is equipped withstreamlined application sharing host services, thereby allowing anend-user PC equipped with streamlined application sharing clientservices to access on-line/information services provided by theon-line/information service applications.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,737,414, issued to Walker, et al., discloses a billingand collection system for enabling payment for a service provided over adata network by billing a customer for a telephone connection to ashared revenue billing network where the telephone connection to thebilling network regulates access to the service provided over the datanetwork, comprising: a data network including at least one user on-lineservice provider presenting at least one service for on-line access by auser with a user computer through the data network, a billing networkand an access management computer for controlling access to the on-lineservice provider and billing the user for access to the on-line serviceprovider, the access management computer communicating with the datanetwork for enabling and terminating access to the on-line serviceprovider through the user computer whereby the billing Network sharesrevenues for the telephone connection with the on-line service provider.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,739,512, issued to Tognazinni, discloses that digitaldelivery of receipts overcomes many of the problems associated withpaper receipts. Digital receipts can be delivered over a proprietary orover an open Network such as the Internet. They can be uploaded to asmart card. They can be standardized in format to facilitate automatedprocessing. An e-mail address can also be incorporated into a bank cardor other machine readable and for automatic routing of the receipt to apayor's e-mailbox.

It is clear that these prior references do not teach or suggest thepresent invention, which invites the consumer to visit an interactive“transaction community” that provides the consumer with an interesting,creative alternative to traditional methods of debt presentment andresolution.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present debt presentment and resolution system utilizes an Internetsystem featuring the distributed network of administrative and consumerusers on, for example, Microsoft Windows 32-bit operating systemsconnecting legacy systems and providing secure access to a robust SQLdatabase structure delivering innovative benefits and advantages incustomer service and payment options for consumers. Billing servicecompanies whose services extend via the mail and electronic billpresentment and payment do not offer a connected system that integratesthe paper billing system with the online enhanced customer service andpayment options.

The disclosed system is an Internet Content Provider serving a“transaction community” of creditors and debtors. Said invention bringsthese two groups together to engage in alternative debt resolution viaenhanced, interactive communication. The principle underlying the“transaction community” model is mutuality. A community is created whenit is mutually beneficial for individuals to come together in a commonunderstanding. The “transaction community” has enormous potential formutuality because it has beneficial offerings for both the creditor andthe debtor communities. The creditor community benefits by providingenhanced customer service and gaining increased profits. The debtorcommunity benefits by gaining enhanced customer service and access to anarray of services related to improving their financial condition.

The “transaction community” model provides transaction focal points orkiosks for credit and collection agencies to drive customers to completetransactions. The base technology of a “transaction community” is asophisticated Internet/intranet based software application that allowsusers to access and input information related to a particular debt withany popular browser. The user is invited to resolve debt through directmail correspondence from the collection agency. This letter includes the“transaction community” Internet address (URL) as well as a unique IDthat allows users to view their debt and enter a valid settlement. Thecredit or collection agency can consult with its clients to decide which“transaction community” would be appropriate to direct the client'scustomers toward. For example, a collection agency's utility clientwould want to have their customers directed to a “transaction community”for utility payment.

Customers may select from a variety of settlement options listed on theHTML (HyperText Markup Language) page. The database records for the“transaction community” are synchronized with those of the correspondingdebt collection agency and exchanged at regular intervals.

Initiation of debtor interaction with said “transaction community”requires several steps. First, a creditor invites debtor to “join”through mail and/or telephone to communicate using a new customerservice option, “transaction community”. Next, the customer enters theappropriate URL (Universal Resource Locator) into their Internet browserand begins interfacing with the “transaction community”. The customer iswelcomed and the purpose or goal of the “transaction community” isexplained. Clearly explained to said customer is that: technology hasimproved and the customer should benefit from advances in technology,the Internet has improved the way a provider and a customer maycommunicate and interact regarding transactions, the “transactioncommunity” helps customers solve their debts by opening the lines ofcommunication in an efficient, confidential, private, controlled, andcomfortable environment, and the “transaction community” is a customerfriendly service interface presented on a computer via the Internetdesigned to mediate between creditor and debtor and collect delinquentreceivables and debts. The “transaction community” then asks the debtorto provide a secure pass code (as provided by the creditor in theinvitation) to bring up account information. The “transaction community”then states the current status of the account and gives the customer ordebtor options for further negotiation. The first option could be anagreement to pay the outstanding debt. At this point, options forpayment may be displayed. Payment options include secure credit cardpayment or secure acceptance of checks through integration of anautomated customer check printing system into the Internet transactionsystem as a few of the possible payment means. Other possible responses,aside from agreeing to pay said debt could include, but are not limitedto, discernable choices for the debtor and/or a free form slate forcommunication via forms or e-mail. Said customer may choose a reason ortype a reason why said debt is not paid and the appropriate form is sentto the collection center. In addition, the creditor can choose automateddecision making via an artificial intelligence means (debtor response ismatched with creditor tolerances) located within said “transactioncommunity” server or may choose human decision via an online e-mailcollection center.

In addition to the debt resolution or transaction management, the“transaction community” could incorporate interactive content that maybe of interest to the demographics and characteristics of the particularmarket segment. This content could include information, links to otherfinancial and employment related sites, and other interactive services.

The system architecture is divided into two sides, client side andserver side. On the client side, said debtor will be able to login tothe “transaction community” web page by entering said uniqueidentification code, typically a password generated by the system, andtypically supplied to the debtor along with his/her bill or “past due”notice. Debtors/users/customers will be able to use leading web browsersoftware to access the “transaction community” web page.

The application essentially consists of several HTML forms, containing aminimal set of ActiveX controls, to increase speed of operation andeliminate the necessity of downloading appropriate ActiveX controls fromsaid web page.

The first screen may have two data entry fields, Customer ID, i.e., saidunique identification code, and said secondary key. After properauthentication, which will take the user to another HTML page, anaccount presentation form may appear. The data displayed on this accountform will be read from the remote database residing on the “transactioncommunity's” server. These components should constitute the “backoffice” components.

The second form may contain, but is not limited to, the following dataabout the account: debtor identification code, secondary access key,debtor name, debtor address, debtor phone number(s), debtor faxnumber(s), debtor's e-mail address(s), DUNS number, initial creditor'sname, amount of the loan, principal amount of loan, interest to date,other costs accrued, debt status, aging of the debt, and collectionagent's name. If data for one of the fields is not available, a “blank”field may be displayed. Alternatively, an administrative or help pagemay also appear.

To further process the transaction, a button on said page, possiblylabeled “Settlement Options”, will then take users to another HTML pagethat may have five or more options; pay the debt off now with a creditcard, dispute the debt, make a payment via phone, make a payment viacheck, or make a payment promise. The first option will allow debtors topay off the debt with a credit card, in which case a standard creditcard payment screen with data fields will appear. The second option willload an HTML page that will allow debtors to enter a dispute claim ande-mail it to the creditor or collection agent. It will also provide anoption to request a verification of the debt. When a dispute message isreceived, some auto-decision making tools may be used, or the decisionmay be made manually and sent to the customer. The third option willprovide users with telephone access to an authorized representative toarrange payment. With this option the customer will need to provide arepresentative with information about his/her checking account and/orbank requisites. The fourth option will allow users to arrange paymentvia a check or via a debit system on the account thereof. The fifthoption will allow debtors to make a promise to send a payment via checkor money order by a certain date, for a certain amount to an addressthat could be verified on the HTML form. An account number verificationwill also be requested from the customer. Additional HTML forms may becreated or provided to support additional desired options. The disclosedsystem is payment processor neutral, i.e., as payment systems evolve,they may be incorporated into the present system.

On the server side, the system contains appropriate database softwareand appropriate system support software. Authenticated customers will beable to access the database records and administer the accounts tovarious utilities such as an Internet Transaction Control Center viaeither RAS (remote access service) or HTTP through their web browsers.

Database records contain all the necessary fields to describe eachaccount contained in the database, such as the status codes, descriptionfields, history field, status types, action codes, and transactionresult codes.

It is anticipated that the present invention may be utilized in a broadrange of applications other than debt collection—in short, as anInternet Transaction Control Center. It incorporates a Web DebtSettlement System, providing a method for coordinating with varioustypes of collection systems. It is intended that the invention alsoallows for payment by check via the Internet, as well as a method formaking philanthropic contributions. Such a feature would be madeavailable by the creditor or biller as a promotion or at the consumer'schoice, by which the consumer could choose from a list of charitableorganizations.

The system is also equipped with a fundraising system providing directmail to invite campaign contributions. The system keeps accurate recordsof the donors and their contributions, and it gives donors the option topay immediately (via check, credit card or smart card), or to pay inaccordance with payment plans approved by the organization. Thisfundraising attribute of the system is designed to ensure privacy whilealso providing the permanent contribution records required by campaignlaws.

The system may also include a revenue sharing system. Upon using aparticular system feature, the system would distribute revenue to theappropriate vendor of that feature. For example, when the consumer logson to a Website, the system would distribute revenue to the direct mailprovider/system provider. When a consumer chooses to pay via creditcard, revenue would be dispensed to the credit card processor. If theCall Center Button is hit, revenue would go to the call centerbutton/center provider. Upon consolidation, the system will allocaterevenue to the appropriate vendor. The system may also provide Help andAdvertising for Dynamic Debt Resolution, as well as aCollection/Customer Service Call Center Button on the Web Page.

In preferred embodiments, the invention features a dynamic changing ofgraphical user interface to adapt to international language variances.The system utility will include interactive digital agents to guide thebill payer or the debtor through payment or customer service. The systemwill also incorporate digital advertising based on what is already knownabout the consumer.

Another component of the invention is an Education and Entertaining BillPayment experience for American consumers. This will include educationalinformation, debt counseling and debt consolidation, as well as gamesand promotions.

Thus, it is the object of this invention to provide a system and methodfor debt presentment and resolution through an Intranet or Internetcontent provider.

Further, it is also the object of this invention to provide a system andmethod comprising a plurality of “transaction communities” which areelectronic forums for interaction between a plurality of parties throughmeans of electronic mail (e-mail) or other such electronic communicationmeans.

Furthermore, it is also an object of this invention to have anembodiment employing artificial intelligence means, whereby verboseinstantaneous communication is made possible by the comparison ofresponses to tolerances.

In addition, it is also an object of this invention to provide a systemand method further comprising an Internet/Intranet base softwareapplication that allows said debtors to access and input informationrelated to a particular debt with any leading Internet browser software.

Further, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service accessable to any person with a PC and Internetconnection.

Additionally, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service whereby database records at said “transactioncommunity” are synchronized with those of the corresponding debtcollection agency and exchanged at regular intervals.

Further, it is also an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service ready to adapt to the new standards for online bankingas they evolve.

Furthermore, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service that utilizes modern technology to facilitate debtcollection.

Further, it is also an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service that allows creditors to provide greater customerservice to their customers.

Further, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service that allows creditors to increase profits.

In addition, it is also an object of this invention to provide aweb-based financial service that provides debtors with information andaccess to an array of services geared towards improving their financialcondition.

Further, it is an additional object of this invention to provideenhanced means in which a debtor and creditor may interact regardingtransactions and debts.

Furthermore, it is an object of this invention to provide “transactioncommunities” which help debtors solve their debts by opening the linesof communication in an efficient, confidential, private, controlled, andcomfortable environment.

Additionally, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service whose payment options for resolving debt include, butare not limited to, secure credit card payment or secure acceptance ofchecks through the integration of an automated customer check printingmeans into the Internet transaction system.

Furthermore, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service whose options aside from paying the debt include, butare not limited to, disputing the debt or making a payment promise, andmeans to accomplish same.

Further, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service whose server has appropriate database software andappropriate system support software.

Additionally, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basefinancial service whereby authenticated customers will be able to accessthe server database records and administer the accounts to variousutilities such as an Internet Transaction Control Center via either RASor HTTP.

In addition, it is an object of this invention to provide a web-basedfinancial service which requires a system generated uniqueidentification code in order to gain access to account information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other objects will become apparent when one skilled in the artreads this disclosure along with the attached drawings.

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram illustrating “transaction community”process methodology.

FIG. 2A depicts a flow chart tracking the debt presentment andresolution process of the present invention.

FIG. 2B depicts a flow chart tracking the debt presentment andresolution process of the present invention.

FIG. 2C depicts a flow chart tracking the debt presentment andresolution process of the present invention.

FIG. 2D depicts a flow chart tracking the debt presentment andresolution process of the present invention.

FIG. 2E depicts a flow chart tracking the debt presentment andresolution process of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a logon instruction sheet.

FIG. 4 depicts the Login Screen that a user will encounter uponconnection to the debt resolution website.

FIG. 5 depicts the Main Menu Screen that a user will encounter uponsuccessfully logging into the program.

FIG. 6 depicts the screen the user will encounter when accessing accountinformation.

FIG. 7 permits a user to create a new account.

FIG. 8 depicts the View Debtors screen, which lists debtor profiles.

FIG. 9 depicts the New Debtor Profile Screen, which allows the user tocreate a new debtor profile.

FIG. 10 depicts the View Creditors Screen, which lists informationregarding creditors.

FIG. 11 depicts the New Creditor Profile Screen, designed to allow theuser to create a new creditor profile.

FIG. 12 depicts the Collectors Screen, and includes a listing ofcollector profiles.

FIG. 13 depicts the New Collector Profile, the purpose of which is toallow the user create a profile for a new collector.

FIG. 14 depicts the Pending Transactions Screen, and provides a listingof all impending transactions.

FIG. 15 depicts a more detailed version of the Pending TransactionsScreen.

FIG. 16 depicts the Systems Settings Screen, which illustrates systemdefault settings as input by the collector.

FIG. 17 depicts the Upload Data screen, which permits the collector toselect a file and its format, as well as to process it.

FIG. 18 depicts the Download Results screen, allowing the user to keeptrack of any information that is downloaded.

FIG. 19 depicts the “About SolveMyDebt.com” screen, which provides theuser with information about the system.

FIG. 20 depicts the Administration Help screen, which gives the user theopportunity to access the system's Help feature.

FIG. 21 depicts the Send Mail screen, which allows the user to sendEmail.

FIG. 22 illustrates the typical notice received by a debtor from acollection agency regarding an overdue payment.

FIG. 23 depicts the screen a consumer first encounters upon entering thesystem.

FIG. 24 provides information for the user regarding compliance with theFair Debt Collection Practice Act.

FIG. 25 represents the About SolveMyDebt.com screen, providing the userwith information about the system.

FIG. 26 embodies the Security and Privacy screen, which leaves the userwith detailed information regarding the system's security features.

FIG. 27 delineates the Access Your Account screen, providing users withthe means to enter their accounts.

FIG. 28 illustrates the Account Information screen, and provides theuser with general account information.

FIG. 29 depicts the Account Details screen, which reveals more detailedinformation regarding the user's account.

FIG. 30 illustrates the screen a user encounters when paying a debt bycredit card.

FIG. 31 illustrates the screen a user encounters when paying a debt bycheck or money order.

FIG. 32 depicts the screen on which a user disputes a debt.

FIG. 33 depicts the screen encountered by a user who selects “Other 376”(from FIG. 31) as the reason for disputing the debt, and affords theuser the opportunity to communicate the reasons a debt has not beenpaid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosedherein. However, physical communication systems, data formats andoperating structures in accordance with the present invention may beembodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may bequite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently,the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein aremerely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford thebest embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis forthe claims herein which define the scope of the present invention.

The “transaction community” system is implemented as two Active Serverapplications. One of them is designed to provide potential debtorsaccess to their accounts, while another, which allows maintenance of thedata and settings, including system policies, is designed to be used bycollectors, system administrators and operators, and probably thirdparty users. Both applications share a common database, for instance,Microsoft SQL server 6.5. These systems also use client-side scripting(mostly JavaScript), Java applets and ISAPI extensions in addition toserver-side (ASP) scripting. Usage of ActiveX components on client sideis reduced to minimum (there is only Microsoft Internet Transfer controlthat is used on client side to facilitate file uploads) due to potentialcompatibility problems. This further exemplifies the reason whyJavaScript was used instead of VBScript (Visual Basic Script) on theclient side. The vast majority of Internet browsers support Java appletsand JavaScript on all platforms, while ActiveX and Visual Basic Scriptis supported mainly by Microsoft Internet Explorer and primarily onIntel-based environments.

The server side environment includes Microsoft NT 4.0, Microsoft IIS 3.0with ASP (as well as Front Page extensions for development purposes),SQL 6.5 along with TSQL debugger extensions for debugging purposes.

The client application can run on any Java-enabled browser supportingJavaScript. Netscape Navigator 3.0 or higher or Microsoft InternetExplorer 3.02 or higher is recommended. Microsoft Internet Explorershould be enabled to open pages containing ActiveX to upload files onserver (from administrator's application).

The database scheme is relatively simple: it uses a “customer” table torepresent debtors, a “creditor” table to store creditor profiles, a“collector” table to keep collectors' data and an “account” table torepresent a debt instance. Another important table is “operation”, whichkeeps all the account transactions.

FIG. 1 illustrates the overall networking scheme between the agencydatabase 100, web server 103, database sever 104, and user 107. Said webserver 103 and database server 104 are networked together via a securelocal area Network (LAN) 109, innaccessable by outside users. Saidagency database 100, web server 103, and user 107 are Networked togetherthrough the Internet 105, described above. Said agency database 100, webserver 103, and user 107 connect individually to the Internet viaappropriate bidirectional communication means (e.g., a modem) 101, 102,106, respectively. Alternatively, said web server 103 and said agencydatabase 100 may also be directly connected 108 via either a private LANor wide area network (WAN) to effectuate faster communication.

FIG. 2A illustrates initial creditor interaction with the debtpresentment system. Prior to the use of the system, said invention ismarketed to collection agencies and credit providers through knownmethods 200A or integrated into currently available collectionmanagement systems. Said collection agency or credit provider would thendecide 200B whether to utilize 202 the system or not 201. Should saidcollection agency or credit provider decide to use the system, a specialaccess code is given to log on to the system 203 (see FIG. 3). Afterreceiving said access code 203, said collection agency or creditprovider may then log on to the system 204 (see FIG. 4). This brings theuser to the Main System Administration Screen 205 (see FIG. 5). Here,the user is given several options. User may access Accounts Screen 206(see FIG. 6), Create New Accounts Screen 207 (see FIG. 7), View DebtorsScreen 208 (see FIG. 8), Create New Debtor Screen 209 (see FIG. 9), ViewCreditors Screen 210 (see FIG. 10), Create New Creditor Screen 211 (seeFIG. 11), View Collectors Screen 212 (see FIG. 12), Create NewCollectors Screen 213 (see FIG. 13), Pending Transactions Screen 214(see FIG. 14), Pending Transactions Detail Screen 215 (see FIG. 15),System Settings Screen 216 (see FIG. 16), Upload Data Screen 217 (seeFIG. 17), Download Results Screen 218 (see FIG. 19), About Screen 220(see FIG. 20), Help Screen 221 (see FIG. 221), or Send Mail Screen 222(see FIG. 22). After utilizing said screens (206-218 and 220-222)appropriately, said user may then send bills with an invitation 223 touse said system.

FIG. 2B illustrates the process wherein a debtor decides whether or notto pay an outstanding debt. After a debtor receives an invitation fromsaid creditor indicating the availability of said system, debtor thendecides 224 whether to use 226 (see FIG. 24) said system or not 225.Said debtor must then log on to the Internet and enter the appropriateURL (Universal Resource Locator) into their browser to access saidsystem. When said debtor arrives at said system, said debtor ispresented with several screens and options. Said screens and optionscould include targeted advertisements 227, options to view said systemin another language 228, an information screen containing the Fair DebtCollection Act 229 (see FIG. 25), general information regarding saiddebt presentment system 230 (see FIG. 26), general information regardingtransaction security and privacy information 231 (see FIG. 27), a loginscreen for access to account information 232 (see FIG. 28), a helpscreen 233, an option to send electronic mail to the administrator ofsaid system, and general information regarding job opportunities orother information pertinent to the demographics of said debtors. Afterviewing said screens and options (227-235), said debtor may then decide236 whether to logon into said system when presented with option 237. Ifdebtor decides not to login to said system, said debtor leaves 238 saidsystem. If said debtor decides to login, an appropriate login passcodemust be entered 239 to begin customer service. After login, said debtoris presented with the account information screen 240 (see FIG. 29). Uponreviewing the presented debt(s), said debtor decides 241 whether or notto pay said debt(s). User may decide not to pay said debts) 242, or maydecide to pay said debt 252 and work out an appropriate payment schedule253.

FIG. 2C illustrates the process for paying or disputing a debt. Withrespect to the aforementioned step 242 (see FIG. 2B), after deciding notto pay said debt, said debtor is given the option to dispute the debt243. If said debtor decides not to dispute said debt, said debtor leavessaid system 244. If said debtor decides to dispute said debt 245, theDispute the Debt screen is displayed 246 (see FIG. 33). Here, saiddebtor may choose how to dispute said debt 247. Said debtor may choose adiscrete debt dispute reason from a given list 248 (see FIG. 33), orsaid debtor may choose an option to input their own reason for disputingthe debt 249. In either case, the creditor then processes the debtor'sdispute 250 and sends an appropriate response to said debtor 251. Withrespect to aforementioned step 252 (see FIG. 2C), if customer decides topay said debt and creates a payment schedule 253 (see FIG. 2C), saidpayment schedule will be compared to parameters preset by said creditorthrough artificial intelligence 254 or by using live collectorsmonitoring account status. If said credit accepts said debtors paymentschedule 255, said debtor will then choose a payment type 262. If saidcreditor rejects said payment plan 257, said debtor is instructed tomake another offer within said creditor's parameters 257. The artificialintelligence process of comparing debtor's payment schedule to thatrequired by said creditor is illustrated in an additional iterationcomprising steps 259 through 260. It should be noted, however, that thisis merely illustrative. As many iterations as necessary for saidcreditor to accept said debtor's payment schedule may occur. After anacceptable payment schedule is found, said debtor then chooses a paymenttype 262.

FIG. 2D illustrates the process of said debtor choosing a paymentmethod. Referring to aforementioned step 262 (see FIG. 2C), when saiddebtor chooses a payment type, payment processing types are presented263. Payment options may include: payment by check via Internet 264,payment by credit card screen 265 (see FIG. 31), payment by paymentpromise 266 (see FIG. 32), or other type of payment processing 267.After choosing a payment processing option, said debtor enters paymentprocessing information 268. Said debtor may then choose why type ofreceipt they would prefer 269. Receipt options include: no additionalreceipt 270, receipt via regular mail 271, receipt via electronic mail272, or receipt via electronic mail and regular mail 273. Aftersubmitting all relevant payment processing information 274, paymentprocessing occurs as per the debtor's selected method. Said paymentprocessing may proceed in realtime whereby receipt processing isperformed on-line 276, payment processing may occur at a later date 277,e.g., batch processing, or the payment processing may be unsuccessful278. After said payment processing, said debtor receives receipt in formspecified in aforementioned step 269.

FIG. 3 depicts a log-on instruction sheet for a debt collectionapplication utilizing the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts the Login Screen that a user will encounter uponconnection to the debt resolution website. As is typical with suchapplications, the user is presented with various options. For example,by clicking on “About VRG 101,” the user can find information about thedebt collection company. Other related services may be accessed byclicking “Services 102.” “Help 103” provides instructions on using theprogram. In the event the user would prefer information via standardmail, he or she may click “Send Mail 104.”

Access to the program is limited to users who have been previouslyprovided (by mail or otherwise) with a “User ID 105” and “Password 106”and once these have been typed, the user will click “Login 107” to enterthe program. To stop transmitting the said information or to re-enterdifferent information, click “Reset 108.”

The “Restricted Access Warning 109” on the bottom of the screen is tocaution unauthorized users from entering and viewing the program. Oncethe user's ID and password have been transmitted, the user is logged in.

FIG. 5 depicts the Main Menu Screen that a user will encounter uponsuccessfully logging into the program. The Main Menu Screen has thefollowing hyperlinks to other areas of the database and are selfexplanatory: “Access Accounts Data 111;” “Create New Accounts 112;”“View Debtors 113;” “Create New Debtor 114;” “View Creditors 115;”“Create New Creditor 116;” “View Collectors 117;” “Create New Collector118;” “Pending Transactions 119;” “System Settings 120;” “Upload Data121;” “Download Results 122;” “About Solve My Debt 123;” “Help 124;”“Send Mail 125” and “Description of Operator Utilities 126.”

If the user chooses to access his or her account, then he or she will bebrought to FIG. 6, which depicts the screen the user will encounter whenaccessing account information. The information displayed consists ofstandard account information, including “Account Number 128,” the “Nameof the Debtor 129,” a “Description of the Debt 130,” an illustration ofthe “Total Due 131,” “Identification of the Creditor 132,” indication ofthe “Date the Debt was Created 133,” and a “Description of the Collector134.” The “Branding 135” is illustrated as well. The remainder of FIG. 6consists of methods for navigating the account information page,allowing one to move “back one entire page 136,” “back by a single entry(137),” “forward by a single entry 138,” “forward an entire page 139,”and to “Requery 140.” The user can also “return to the main menu 141,”as well as link to the system's “Help Feature 142” and “Send Mail 143.”

Alternatively, a user may choose to develop a new account. The screenillustrated in FIG. 7 permits a user to do so. To create a new account,the user will input the “Customer Name 144,” the “Identity of theCreditor 145,” as well as an “Illustration of the Creditor 146.” Thescreen also allows for the user to indicate a “Description of the Debt147,” the “Type of Account Created 148” and whether the account has been“modified 149,” whether an “invoice was sent 150,” “when payment isreceived 151,” the “Amount of the Principal Debt 152,” “Other Costs aConsumer Might Owe 153,” an indication of the “Interest Accrued to Date154,” the “Amount of the Last Payment 155,” the “Status of the Debt 156”as well as any “Comments 157.” The screen also allows the user to put inthe “Monthly Payments 158,” the “Maximum Number of Months in which topay 159,” the “Interest Rate 160,” the “User Login Identification 161,”and the “Password 162.” Finally, this screen will process theaforementioned information upon clicking “Create 163.” The user canclear the information in the fields by clicking “Reset 164” or thereturn to the previous “Main Menu 165.”

A user who seeks a description of a debtor can obtain one. FIG. 8depicts the View Debtors screen, which lists debtor profiles. Thisscreen tabulates information in the system by “Name 166;” “Address 167;”“Phone 168;” “E-mail account 169;” “Date of Birth 170;” and “Description171.” The user can page backward or forward by clicking the “Back 172”and “Forward 175” buttons, respectively. Likewise, the user can movebackward or forward by a single debtor in the listing by hitting buttons173 and 174, respectively. One can ask questions of a particular debtorby clicking the “Requery button 176.” The user can return to the mainmenu “Return to Main Menu 177,” ask for help “System Help 178,” or sendmail “Send Mail 179.”

Rather than viewing the profile of an already existing debtor, a usermay create a description of a new debtor. FIG. 9 depicts the New DebtorProfile Screen. This screen allows the user to input the personalprofile of each debtor. Such information would include the “Name 180,”“Address (181-185),” “Phone 186,” and “other personal data 187-194.” Theuser can input additional “Comments 195” and input the above informationinto the system database for later retrieval and usage by clicking“Submit 196.” The user can also clear the information in the fields byclicking “Reset 197” or return to the “Main Menu 198.”

Similarly, a user may seek to review a description of an alreadyexisting creditor or may desire to create a new one. This is achievablevia the screens depicted in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11. FIG. 10 depicts theCreditors Screen. This screen tabulates creditor information in thesystem by “Creditor ID 199;” “Name 200;” “Contact Name 201;” “Address202;” “Phone 203;” “Fax 204;” and “E-mail account 205.” The user canpage backwards or forwards by clicking the “Back 206” and “Forward 209”buttons, respectively. Likewise, the user can go backward or forward bya single debtor in the list by hitting buttons 207 and 208,respectively. One can ask questions of a particular debtor by clickingthe “Requery button 210.” The user can return to the main menu “Returnto Main Menu 211,” ask for help “System Help 212,” or send mail “SendMail 213.”

FIG. 11 depicts the New Creditor Profile Screen. This screen allows theuser to input the personal profile of each creditor. Such informationwould include the “Organization 214,” the “Name 215,” “Address(216-220),” “Phone 221,” and other “data (222-224).” The user can inputadditional “comments 225” and input the above information into thesystem database by clicking “Submit 226.” The user can deleteinformation by clicking “Reset 227” or the user can return to the “MainMenu 228.”

A user can obtain a list of collector profiles, as well. FIG. 12 depictsthe Collectors Screen. This screen allows the user to list collectors,and it includes a hyperlink to detailed debtor information. The screenlists the collectors by “Name 229,” “Address 230,” “Phone 231,” “FaxNumber 232,” “Email 233,” and “Comments 234.” The remainder of FIG. 12consists of methods for navigating the account information page,allowing one to move “back one entire page 235,” “back by a single entry236,” “forward by a single entry 237,” “forward an entire page 238,” to“Requery 239,” “return to the main menu 240,” as well as link to thesystem's “Help Feature 241” and “Send Mail 242.”

It is also possible to create a new collector profile. FIG. 13 depictsthe New Collector Profile screen, which allows the user to inputinformation about a collector such as “Name 243,” “Address 244-248,”“Phone 249,” “Fax Number 250” “Email 251,” and “Comments 252.” Thesystem can process the aforementioned information, putting it into thesystem database for later retrieval and usage, by clicking “Submit 253.”The user can clear the information in the fields by clicking “Reset 254”or the user can return to the “Main Menu 255.”

FIG. 14 depicts the Pending Transactions Screen. This screen allows theuser to ascertain the status of any pending transactions through the“Account 256” feature. The user can gain access to “Debtor/Card MemberName 257,” “Date/Time Information 258,” an illustration of the “Code259,” which includes a hyperlink to singular pending transactioninformation, the transaction “Amount 260” information, the chosen“Payment Method 261,” the “Date (Expected or Promised) 262,” and thepending transaction “CC/Check Number 263.” The user can also obtain thename of the “Issuer 264,” information regarding a “Send Verification265,” and “Reason 266” information. The user can navigate around thepage via the “Back by Page 267” feature, as well as “Back by Single268,” “Forward by Single 269,” “Forward by Page 270,” “Requery 271,” and“Return to Main Menu 272.” The screen also features a hyperlink toinformation about the “System Help 273,” as well as a hyperlink to “SendMail 274.”

FIG. 15 depicts a more detailed version of the Pending TransactionScreen. “Originated 2751” allows a user to ascertain the date on whichthe debt originated, and “Account ID 276” displays the accountidentification number, with a hyperlink to the detailed accountinformation screen. “Debtor 277” provides the name of the debtor, andincludes a hyperlink to the detailed debtor information screen.Additional information about the account is provided through the“Original Status 278,” the “Amount 279,” “Payment Method 280”information, “Date (Expected Or Promised) 281,” and “Collector Decision282” including ability to change decision with pull down menu. “Submit283” allows the user to submit the information into the system database,while “Reset 284” permits the user to clear the fields. “Return to MainMenu 285” allows the user to return to the system's main menu.

A user may also input default settings for the system. FIG. 16 depictsthe Systems Settings Screen, which provides information fields for thedefault settings. The user inputs minimum monthly payment information in“Minimum Monthly Payment 286,” the maximum number of months permitted torepay the debt in “Maximum Months to Pay the Debt 287,” and theapplicable interest rate in “Interest Rate 288.” “Submit 289” allows theuser to submit the system settings, while “Reset 290” permits the userto reset the system. “Main Menu 291” allows the user to return to thesystem's main menu.

FIG. 17 depicts the Upload Data screen, which permits the creditor toprepare data offline, and then upload that data to the system for theconvenient customization of the debt presentment system. The user caninput a file name via “Import File 292,” select the file format under“Format 293,” process and import the file with the “Process 2941”feature, and reset the system using “Reset 295.” A file is uploadedusing “Upload Button 296,” and the user can input the full path to thelocal file using “Full Path to Local File 296A.”

To keep track of downloaded information, a user can access FIG. 18,which depicts the Download Results screen. The download results areillustrated using “Download Results 297.” The date, time,characteristics and file name of the downloaded results are accessedusing “Date 298,” “Time 299,” “Characteristics 300,” and “File Name301,” respectively.

A user can access general information about the system through the“About SolveMyDebt.com” screen, as depicted in FIG. 19. Using“SolveMyDebt.com 302,” the user can access descriptions of the operatorutilities.

A user who seeks assistance with any of the system's features can accessthe screen depicted in FIG. 20, the Administration Help screen. With“Access to Help and Instructions for System Administration 303,” theuser reaches an illustration of the system's help screen foradministration.

Should the user wish to send Email, he or she may do so through the SendMail screen, as depicted in FIG. 21. “Pre-Addressed e-mail ready to fillin and send 304” illustrates the send mail screen for administrationsupport.

When a debtor receives a notice from a collection agency regarding anoverdue payment, it will typically resemble the one shown in FIG. 22.The notice depicted in this Figure informs the debtor of theSolveMyDebt.com service, and invites the payor to access the cite.

The debtor who chooses to visit the website will encounter FIG. 23,which depicts the screen a consumer first meets upon entering thesystem. “Branding 305” portrays the visual/graphic and audio contentthat differentiates one system deployment from another, and it can bedynamic based on the demographic characteristics of the consumer tomaximize communication effectiveness (including multilingual,multicultural, etc.). “Advertising 306” illustrates the advertising(which can be dynamic) in the generic debt collection embodiment. Theuser encounters an illustration of system construction information andinformation for compliance with the Fair Debt Collection Practice Actwith “Instructions and FDCPA if necessary 307” (the information is basedon the locality of the debtor to comply with fair debt collection laws).The screen provides the user with hyperlinks to a variety of systemresources via “Hyperlink to FDCPA 308,” “Hyperlink to AboutSolveMyDebt.com 309,” “Hyperlink to Security and Privacy Info. 310,”“Hyperlink to Access Account 311,” “Hyperlink to Help 312,” “Hyperlinkto Send Mail 313,” and “Hyperlink to Job Opportunities 314.”

A debtor who seeks detailed information regarding the FDCPA will link toFIG. 24. “FDCPA Information 315” illustrates information for compliancewith the FDCPA. The information is dynamic based on locality of debtorto comply with fair debt collection laws. “Hyperlinks 316” representshyperlinks to about SolveMyDebt.com, security information, access to theuser's account, help, and send mail.

A consumer who seeks detailed information about the system itself willlink to FIG. 25, which represents the About SolveMyDebt.com screen.“SolveMyDebt.com 317” is a hyperlink to information about theSolveMyDebt.com transaction community and, where necessary, informationfor compliance with the Fair Debt Collection Practice Act. “Hyperlinks318” provides access to about SolveMyDebt.com, security information, auser's account, help, send mail, and job opportunities.

FIG. 26 represents the Security and Privacy screen, to which a consumerwho requires more detailed material regarding the privacy of his or hertransactions can link. The user can access information regardingsecurity and privacy policies within the SolveMyDebt.com transactioncommunity using “Security and Privacy Information 319.” The screen alsoprovides links to about SolveMyDebt.com, security information, accessyour account, help, send mail, and job opportunities through “Hyperlinks320.”

A consumer who wishes to utilize the system can link to FIG. 27, whichdelineates the Access Your Account screen. To gain entry into anaccount, the user follows the directions provided by “Instructions 321,”then proceeds to input the user's account number in “Enter Your AccountNumber 322,” and passcode in“Enter Your Passcode 323.” To access theaccount, the user submits the account number and passcode via “Submit324.” The user also has the opportunity to clear the account number andpasscode using “Clear 325.” The screen also provides “Hyperlinks 326,”which links a user to information regarding about SolveMyDebt.com,security information, accessing one's account, help, sending mail, andjob opportunities.

Once the proper name and password have been processed, the user willreach FIG. 28, which illustrates the Account Information screen. On thisscreen, the user will find information regarding: “Name 327,” “Address328,” “Creditor 329,” “Debt Description 330,” “Principal Amount 331,”“Interest to Date 332,” Other Costs 333,” and “Total 334.” The user canalso determine when repayment was due with “Due Since 335” the identityof the collection agent using “Collection Agent 336.” The user has theoption of either settling the debt under “Pay the Debt 337,” ordisputing the debt via “Dispute the Debt 338.” “Help 339” and “Home 340”provide the user with hyperlinks to the help information screen and tothe SolveMyDebt.com homepage, respectively. The debt's status can beascertained using “Status 341.” “Account Details 342” provides ahyperlink to the account details information screen.

If the consumer seeks more detailed information regarding the account,he or she can access FIG. 29, which depicts the Account Details screen.Information on this screen provides the user with the particulars of thedebt, including: “Debtor/Card Member Name 343,” “Date/Time 344,” “Code345,” “Amount 346,” “Payment Method 347,” “Date (Exp. Or Prom.) 348,”“CC/Check Number 349,” “Issuer 350,” “Reason 351,” and “Last Updated352.” The screen also furnishes hyperlinks to the account informationscreen with “Account 353,” the SolveMyDebt.com homepage using “Home354,” the system's help feature with “Help 355,” and the send mailfeature with “Send Mail 356.”

Once the consumer decides to pay the debt, he or she can pay by creditcard, check or money order. FIG. 30 illustrates the screen a userencounters when paying a debt by credit card. The user selects thischoice of payment method with “Payment Method 357.” The amount owed isdepicted within the “Amount 358” field. Information regarding the user'scredit card is input by the user into the “Card Member Name 359,” “CardIssuer 360,” “Credit Card Number 361,” and “Expiration Date 362” fields.The user manifests assent to the specified payment arrangement with“Agree 363.” “Back 264” is a means for the user to go back on thepayment arrangement screen.

FIG. 31 illustrates the screen a user encounters when paying a debt bycheck or money order. The user selects this choice of payment with“Payment Method 365.” An illustration of the amount owed is found in“Amount 366.” The payment type selected, the sending date, and theaddress to which payment is being sent are illustrated in the “I'll bepaying by 367,” “I'll be sending it on 368” and “the address I'm sendingpayment is” fields, respectively. The user assents to the specifiedpayment arrangement using “Agree 370,” or may go back on the paymentarrangement screen using “Back 371.”

If the consumer feels that the overdue payment with which he or she ischarged is erroneous, then the consumer may choose to dispute the debt.FIG. 32 depicts the screen which allows a user to dispute a debt. Theuser chooses from a list of reasons for the dispute, listed as: “NeverOrdered 372,” “Never Received 373,” “Already Paid 374,” “ReturnedMerchandise 375,” and “Other 376.” The user may also request averification of the debt, using “Please send me verification of the debt377.” The user then submits the reason for dispute using “Submit 378,”or may choose to clear the dispute screen with “Clear 379.”

FIG. 33 depicts the screen encountered by a user who selects “Other3761” (from FIG. 31) as the reason for disputing the debt. This screenillustrates “Never Ordered 380,” “Never Received 381,” “Already Paid382,” and “Returned Merchandise 383,” all as seen on the debt disputescreen from FIG. 31. “Other 384” is an illustration of the “other”reason selection on the debt dispute screen, as well. “Input Area forOther Reason 3851” depicts the field available to input the other reasonfor disputing the debt. The reason may be reviewed by live collectors ora collection agency which utilizes artificial intelligence. “Please sendme verification of the debt 386” allows the user to requestdocumentation of the debt. The user then submits the reason for disputeusing “Submit 387,” or may choose to clear the dispute screen with“Clear 388.”

That which is claimed:
 1. A method for allowing selective access by aclient of a collection agency to information from debt collection by thecollection agency, comprising: storing a plurality of account data itemsin a database, each data item being associated with an account belongingto the client of the collection agency, the plurality of data itemsincluding information relating to debt owed to the client by one or moredebtors; processing database access requests with a network server froma user process controlled by a remote user; processing credentials toauthenticate the remote user as a client representative; and processingdata access requests in accordance with a defined access scheme suchthat the client representative can access only data items associatedwith an account belonging to the client to allow remote review andreporting of the account data items.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising allowing access to data items in accordance with a definedaccess scheme providing for a plurality of access tiers such that theclient representative is allowed access only to those client accountdata items allowed by the tier to which the client representative hasbeen assigned.
 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising accessingdata stored in the database with a database server, wherein the networkserver communicates with the database server by a common gatewayinterface script executed by the network server.
 4. The method of claim2, further comprising accessing data stored in the database with adatabase server, wherein the network server communicates with thedatabase server by executing a java applet that communicates with thedatabase server over the network.
 5. The method of claim 2 wherein thedatabase contains one or more tables with each table containing one ormore records with one or more defined data fields for storing data itemstherein according to type, the records thereby serving to group the dataitems into data entities, with each of such data entities beingassociated with a particular account.
 6. The method of claim 5 whereinone of the stored data items is an account identifier that is related toeach data item in the database to identify the account with which thedata item is associated.
 7. The method of claim 6 wherein one of thestored data items is a client identifier that is related to the accountidentifier to identify the client to which the account belongs.
 8. Themethod of claim 7 further comprising restricting a particular client'sdata access to views of the data items that include the clientidentifier for that client.
 9. The method of claim 5 further comprisingrestricting data access of particular client-representatives to selectedviews of the data items to which the client has data access.
 10. Themethod of claim 5 further comprising presenting to a clientrepresentative accessing the database through a web browser, uponrequest, a plurality of selected views of data items associated withaccounts belonging to the client.
 11. The method of claim 10 wherein thedata items related to an account and presented in a selected view arechosen from a group consisting of an account identifier, a name of adebtor on the account, a state in which the debtor is located, amountspaid on the account, amounts owing on the account, original amount due,account status, and a collector's notes on an account.
 12. The method ofclaim 11 further comprising presenting a selected view that includesdata items sorted according to a selected data item.
 13. The method ofclaim 12 further comprising presenting a selected view that includesdata items sorted according to a selected data item chosen from a groupconsisting of a debtor name, a debtor identifier, the accountidentifier, state in which a debtor is located, account status, date onwhich an account was entered into a system, and by a range of amountsowed on an account.
 14. The method of claim 11 further comprisingpresenting a selected view that includes a link to an online-ledger foreach account represented in the selected view, wherein the online-ledgerpresents a plurality of data items associated with a single account. 15.The method of claim 11 further comprising allowing the client to insertcomments into a designated record field in accordance with a particularaccess tier.
 16. The method of claim 5 wherein the data items include adebtor identifier and amount owed on an account.
 17. The method of claim16 further comprising processing credentials transmitted by the userprocess to authenticate the identity of the user as an agencyrepresentative, and wherein the tiered access scheme includes an accesstier for agency representatives that allows access to all data itemscontained in the database.
 18. The method of claim 16 further comprisingallowing for differential client access to accounts owned by a clientamong representatives of the client in accordance with a managementstructure of the client.
 19. The method of claim 16 further comprisingallowing a client representative to enter a new account into a systemalong with data items associated with that account in accordance with anaccess tier.
 20. The method of claim 16 further comprising allowing auser process to query the database with relational expressions and bepresented with data responsive to the query in accordance with thedefined access scheme.
 21. The method of claim 1, wherein the method iscarried out on a network that is the Internet.
 22. A method comprising:receiving logon credentials over a network from a user, the logoncredentials providing access to an online system that stores debtoraccount data of debts owned by a creditor that is a client of acollection agency that maintains the data in the online system;authenticating the user as a client of the collection agency; generatinga report as a function of at least a portion of the logon credentials,the generating of the report comprising: retrieving debtor account dataof debtor accounts of the debts owned by the creditor placed with thecollection agency and represented in a database of the online system,the retrieved debtor account data for each debtor account includingdebtor identifying data, debtor account status data, and a dateassociated with the account; formatting the retrieved account data in aformat displayable by web browser computer application, the formatteddata comprising a document; and transmitting the document from theonline system over the network to the user.
 23. The method of claim 22,wherein the formatting of the retrieved account data includes embeddinga hypertext link in the document for each debtor account represented inthe document, the hypertext links providing a link to retrieve furtherdata from the database over the network, the further data regarding thedebtor account of the respective hyperlink.
 24. The method of claim 22,wherein the document is an HTML document.
 25. A method comprising:receiving input identifying a debtor account placed with a collectionagency by a creditor; retrieving debtor account data from a databaseincluding data representative of debtor accounts placed with thecollection agency for collection activity, the database including datarepresentative of collection activities performed by the collectionagency with regard to individual accounts represented in the database,the retrieved debtor account data for each debtor account includingdebtor identifying data, debtor account status data, and a dateassociated with the account; formatting the retrieved debtor accountdata in a format displayable by web browser computer application, theformatted data comprising a document; and transmitting the document fromthe online system over the network to the user.
 26. The method of claim25, wherein the formatting of the retrieved account data includesembedding a hypertext link in the document for each debtor accountrepresented in the document, the hypertext links providing a link toretrieve further data from the database over the network, the furtherdata regarding the debtor account of the respective hyperlink.
 27. Themethod of claim 25, wherein the document is an HTML document.